Understanding How Unnecessary Strain Can Damage Your Air Conditioner
Posted on: 4 November 2021
When the sweltering heat of summer hits, your air conditioner is your main line of defense to keep you comfortable. For that very reason, you want to make sure you keep your AC unit running in tip-top shape. Unfortunately, unnecessary strain can cause your AC to run harder than it needs to. Even more unfortunate is that unnecessary strain can shorten the lifespan of your air conditioner. Fortunately, there are ways to ensure your AC isn't overworked and repaired properly for your comfort and convenience.
What's That Sound?
It is perfectly normal for an air conditioner to make the occasional "pop" or "fizzle" sound, but a continuous hum could be a sign of something more serious. If your AC is overworked, it can cause several mechanical failures. For instance, a continuous humming noise might be from one of the following issues:
- Condenser fan motor – it is common for the fan motor to seize up if the unit is overworked, which will cause a loud, persistent humming noise
- Frozen unit – an overworked unit will often freeze up, which can cause the unit to produce a buzzing or humming noise
If you hear a sound coming from your AC that does not seem normal, make sure you contact a professional to assist you with AC repair.
Causes of Unnecessary Strain on Your AC
Does your home have an attic? If so, do you have an attic fan installed? If not, your home's AC unit is likely working extra hard to keep you cool and comfortable. An attic that is not properly ventilated can reach temperatures up to 150 degrees during the summer months.
Another recommendation is to come up with a schedule to change your air filters regularly. Clogged air filters put a lot of strain on an AC unit. Professionals often suggest that you change your air filters at least every 30 days, especially if you are using lower-grade filters. If you are using a high-end filter, the filter can last up to six months.
Other factors that may help you determine how often you change your filters would be:
- If you have pets
- If you live in an area prone to dust (example: surrounded by dirt roads)
- If you allow smoking inside your home
Pet dander, smoke, and other pollutants will clog a filter. Unfortunately, a clogged filter puts a lot of wear and tear on an HVAC unit. That means your air conditioner will have to work twice as hard to keep your home cool and comfortable.
If you do not replace clogged filters, you could find yourself in need of air conditioner repair services instead. A clogged filter that does not get replaced can strain your unit to the point that it stops working entirely.
What to Expect
If your air conditioner is not working properly, you will need to hire a professional to perform HVAC repair. First, you will need to test your unit. It is better to run the air conditioner before the heat of summer arrives. Run the unit for a few minutes so you can determine if it is blowing cool air. If it is not or if the unit is making strange noises, turn it off and call an expert.
If you continue to try to use your air conditioner while it is malfunctioning, that could also put additional strain on it. Unfortunately, straining an already broken unit can lead to more expensive or permanent damages. Contact an HVAC professional today to learn more about air conditioner repair and other services that might benefit you and help keep you and your home comfortable. In most cases, a professional can address the repairs you need within a few hours to a day.
Reach out to a company like Kleen Air Services for additional information.
Share